Individuals who wish to maintain a lot of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to participate in rehab services without the commitment one would normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment facility. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address significant substance abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those who choose an outpatient rehab will usually attend meetings and take part in counseling and rehabilitation services part-time each day or several days each week. This can be very helpful for individuals who have recently completed a more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with just a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a really small amount of clients. For somebody with more serious addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug treatment facilities which provide rehabilitation on a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous rehabilitation option.