Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to participate in rehab services without the commitment one would normally have to agree to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab center. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to resolve substantial drug abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. Those who choose an outpatient rehab will generally show up at meetings and take part in counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis daily or several days a week. This is helpful for many who have recently completed a more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and someone with only a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a really small number of clients. For a person with more severe addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs which offer rehab over a long-term basis are going to be the more effective treatment choice.