Individuals who would like to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehabilitation services with the same commitment one would usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment program. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to address substantial substance abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune possibility, it isn't for everybody. Those that do choose an outpatient rehab will typically show up at meetings and be a part of counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis daily or a few days a week. This is helpful for many who have recently completed a far more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with just a short history of drug use which is really a very small amount of clients. For an individual with more severe drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment facilities which provide rehab over a long-term basis will probably be the more beneficial treatment alternative.