Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab if they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehab services without the commitment one would usually have to agree to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab program. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to resolve substantial substance abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient option, it isn't for everybody. Those that choose an outpatient rehab will ordinarily attend meetings and take part in counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis each day or several days each week. This is often helpful for individuals who have just completed a far more complete inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with just a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a really small amount of clients. For a person with more significant addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab facilities that provide treatment over a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous treatment alternative.