Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to participate in rehabilitation services with the same commitment one would normally have to consent to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment program. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to solve significant drug abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient possibility, it isn't for everyone. People that decide on an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis each day or a few days weekly. This is very helpful for many who have recently completed a much more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with just a short history of drug abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For a person with more severe drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab centers that provide rehab on a long-term basis will be the more advantageous rehabilitation choice.