Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab enables the rehab client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would normally have to consent to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab center. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address significant drug abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those that do decide on an outpatient rehab will ordinarily take part in meetings and take part in therapy and rehab services part-time each day or a few days weekly. This is very helpful for those who have just completed a far more complete inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with only a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a really small percentage of clients. For somebody with more severe addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment facilities which offer rehab on a long-term basis will be the more advantageous treatment choice.