Individuals who wish to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehab client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment facility. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to solve substantial substance abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those that do decide on an outpatient rehab will generally show up at meetings and take part in counseling and treatment services on a part-time basis every day or several days each week. This is often helpful for those who have just completed a far more complete inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with only a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a very small number of clients. For someone with more severe drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug treatment programs that provide rehabilitation on a long-term basis will be the more beneficial rehab option.