Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to participate in rehab services without the commitment you might ordinarily have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment program. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to solve substantial substance abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. Those that do choose an outpatient rehab will usually show up at meetings and take part in counseling and treatment services on a part-time basis each day or a few days per week. This is very helpful for those who have recently completed a much more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with only a brief history of drug use which is usually a very small number of clients. For a person with more significant drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug treatment facilities which provide treatment over a long-term basis will probably be the more advantageous rehabilitation alternative.