Individuals who would like to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab if they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to take part in treatment services without the commitment you might usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab center. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address significant drug abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient option, it isn't for everyone. People who choose an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and be a part of therapy and rehab services part-time on a daily basis or a few days each week. This can be very helpful for those who have recently completed a far more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with only a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a really small amount of clients. For somebody with more severe addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug rehab programs which provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis will be the more effective rehabilitation alternative.