Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to participate in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would usually have to consent to within an inpatient or residential drug rehab facility. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for 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 who choose an outpatient rehab will usually attend meetings and take part in therapy and rehabilitation services part-time on a daily basis or a few days a week. This is often helpful for many who have just completed an even more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, or for someone with only a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For an individual with more severe drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab facilities which provide rehab over a long-term basis will be the more beneficial treatment choice.