Individuals who would like to maintain a lot of flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab if they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehab services without the commitment you might normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab program. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to address substantial substance abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient option, it isn't for everybody. People that do decide on an outpatient rehab will generally take part in meetings and be a part of therapy and treatment services on a part-time basis each day or several days a week. This is helpful for many who have just completed a more thorough inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with only a short history of drug abuse which is usually a really small number of clients. For somebody with more serious addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation programs that provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis are going to be the more effective treatment option.