Individuals who would like to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehab client to participate in rehab services with the same commitment one would ordinarily have to agree to within an inpatient or residential drug treatment facility. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address substantial drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient option, it isn't for everybody. Those that decide on an outpatient rehab will generally take part in meetings and take part in counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis on a daily basis or several days a week. This is very helpful for many who have recently completed an even more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and for someone with just a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For a person with more severe drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation facilities which offer rehabilitation over a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial rehabilitation choice.