Individuals who would like to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to take part in treatment services with the same commitment you might normally have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to resolve significant drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune option, it isn't for everybody. Those who decide on an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and take part in therapy and treatment services part-time each day or a few days a week. This can be very helpful for those who have recently completed a much more complete inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with just a short history of drug abuse which is really a very small amount of clients. For somebody with more serious addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation facilities which offer rehabilitation over a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial treatment option.