Individuals who want to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehab client to participate in rehabilitation services with the same commitment one would usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation program. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to resolve substantial substance abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient possibility, it isn't for everyone. People that choose an outpatient rehab will generally attend meetings and take part in therapy and treatment services on a part-time basis daily or several days a week. This is helpful for those who have recently completed a more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and for someone with only a brief history of drug use which is really a very small percentage of clients. For somebody with more serious drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab facilities which provide rehab on a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous rehabilitation choice.