Individuals who wish to maintain a lot of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to take part in treatment services without the commitment one would normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab program. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to resolve significant substance abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. People that do decide on an outpatient rehab will ordinarily take part in meetings and be a part of therapy and rehab services on a part-time basis every day or a few days per week. This is often helpful for those who have just completed a more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with just a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a really small percentage of clients. For someone with more significant addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment programs which provide treatment on a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial rehab alternative.