Individuals who would like to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug treatment program. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to solve substantial drug abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. Those who do decide on an outpatient rehab will typically show up at meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis each day or a few days a week. This is very helpful for many who have just completed a more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, or for someone with only a short history of drug use which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For someone with more serious addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs that provide rehab over a long-term basis are going to be the more effective treatment choice.