Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab if they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the treatment client to take part in rehab services with the same commitment one would normally have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation center. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to resolve significant drug abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those who do choose an outpatient rehab will generally show up at meetings and be a part of therapy and treatment services on a part-time basis every day or several days per week. This is very helpful for those who have recently completed a much more complete inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with just a short history of drug use which is usually a really small number of clients. For somebody with more significant drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation centers which provide treatment over a long-term basis are going to be the more effective rehab alternative.