Individuals who wish to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab should they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to take part in treatment services with the same commitment one would usually have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation center. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to solve substantial substance abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune possibility, it isn't for everybody. People who do choose an outpatient rehab will usually attend meetings and take part in counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis on a daily basis or several days each week. This can be very helpful for individuals who have just completed a far more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with just a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a really small percentage of clients. For a person with more severe drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation centers that provide treatment on a long-term basis are going to be the more effective rehabilitation alternative.