Individuals who would like 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 allows for the rehab client to participate in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation program. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to solve significant substance abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient option, it isn't for everybody. Those who do choose an outpatient rehab will usually attend meetings and take part in counseling and rehab services part-time every day or a few days weekly. This is very helpful for many who have recently completed an even more complete inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with just a brief history of drug use which is really a really small number of clients. For someone with more serious drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug treatment programs which offer rehab on a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial rehabilitation option.