Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to take part in treatment services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug treatment facility. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address substantial drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient possibility, it isn't for everybody. Those who choose an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and be a part of therapy and treatment services on a part-time basis daily or several days weekly. This is helpful for many who have just completed a more complete inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with only a brief history of drug use which is really a really small number of clients. For somebody with more severe addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab facilities which offer treatment over a long-term basis will be the more advantageous treatment alternative.