Individuals who want to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to take part in rehab services with the same commitment one would normally have to consent to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab center. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to address significant drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. People that do choose an outpatient rehab will ordinarily attend meetings and be a part of counseling and treatment services part-time every day or a few days a week. This is very helpful for those who have recently completed a far more extensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with only a short history of drug use which is usually a really small percentage of clients. For someone with more severe addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug treatment programs which offer treatment over a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial treatment alternative.