Individuals who want to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehabilitation client to participate in rehab services without the commitment you might ordinarily have to consent to within an inpatient or residential drug rehab facility. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to solve significant substance abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. Those who decide on an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis every day or several days per week. This is often helpful for many who have just completed a more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, and someone with just a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For a person with more severe drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab programs that provide rehabilitation on a long-term basis will be the more beneficial rehab alternative.