Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to participate in rehabilitation services with the same commitment one would normally have to consent to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address significant drug abuse problems. 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 take part in meetings and take part in counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis every day or a few days a week. This is helpful for many who have just completed a far more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with only a short history of substance abuse which is really a very small number of clients. For a person with more significant drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab facilities that provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis will probably be the more beneficial treatment option.