Individuals who wish to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab if they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to participate in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would usually have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation center. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to solve significant substance abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. People who choose an outpatient rehab will generally take part in meetings and take part in counseling and treatment services part-time each day or several days a week. This is very helpful for individuals who have just completed a more thorough inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with just a short history of drug abuse which is usually a very small number of clients. For an individual with more severe addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab centers that provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis will probably be the more effective rehab alternative.