Individuals who would like to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab when they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to participate in treatment services with the same commitment one would usually have to consent to within an inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation facility. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to address significant drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient option, it isn't for everyone. People who do choose an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and take part in counseling and rehabilitation services part-time on a daily basis or a few days weekly. This can be very helpful for many who have recently completed an even more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with only a short history of drug abuse which is usually a really small number of clients. For a person with more significant addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation facilities that provide rehab over a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial rehabilitation alternative.