Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehab services with the same commitment one would usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment center. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address substantial drug abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient possibility, it isn't for everybody. Those who choose an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and take part in counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis each day or several days each week. This is very helpful for individuals who have recently completed a far more extensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with just a short history of drug use which is really a very small amount of clients. For someone with more serious addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation centers which offer rehabilitation over a long-term basis will probably be the more beneficial rehabilitation alternative.