Individuals who would like to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab should they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehab client to take part in rehab services with the same commitment one would normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address significant drug abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. People that do choose an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and take part in counseling and treatment services on a part-time basis on a daily basis or several days per week. This is often helpful for individuals who have recently completed an even more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with just a brief history of drug use which is really a very small number of clients. For somebody with more severe drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment centers that provide treatment on a long-term basis will probably be the more advantageous rehab option.