Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab enables the treatment client to participate in treatment services without the commitment you might usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation center. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to address significant substance abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. People who choose an outpatient rehab will typically attend meetings and be a part of counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis each day or a few days each week. This can be very helpful for individuals who have just completed a far more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with just a short history of substance abuse which is usually a really small number of clients. For somebody with more serious addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug treatment centers that provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis will be the more advantageous treatment choice.