Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab enables the rehabilitation client to participate in rehab services without the commitment one would usually have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address substantial drug abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient possibility, it isn't for everybody. People who do choose an outpatient rehab will usually show up at meetings and take part in therapy and rehabilitation services part-time on a daily basis or a few days each week. This is helpful for those who have recently completed a much more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with just a short history of substance abuse which is usually a very small amount of clients. For somebody with more serious addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab programs which provide treatment on a long-term basis will be the more beneficial rehabilitation choice.