Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab when they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the treatment client to participate in rehab services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to agree to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation center. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to solve substantial drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient possibility, it isn't for everybody. Those that do choose an outpatient rehab will generally take part in meetings and take part in counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis every day or a few days each week. This is helpful for individuals who have recently completed an even more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, or for someone with just a short history of drug use which is usually a really small percentage of clients. For a person with more severe addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment centers which offer treatment over a long-term basis will probably be the more beneficial treatment choice.