Individuals who want to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to participate in rehab services without the commitment one would normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation center. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address significant substance abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient possibility, it isn't for everyone. People that do choose an outpatient rehab will generally show up at meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services part-time daily or a few days each week. This is very helpful for many who have recently completed a more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with just a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a really small amount of clients. For someone with more significant addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehab facilities which provide rehab over a long-term basis will probably be the more effective rehab alternative.