Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehab services without the commitment you might normally have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation program. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to address significant substance abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient option, it isn't for everyone. People that do choose an outpatient rehab will ordinarily take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and treatment services on a part-time basis every day or a few days weekly. This is helpful for those who have recently completed an even more thorough inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, or for someone with only a brief history of drug use which is really a really small percentage of clients. For a person with more serious addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation facilities that provide treatment over a long-term basis will probably be the more effective treatment choice.