Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab should they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehab client to participate in treatment services with the same commitment one would normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug treatment center. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to resolve significant drug abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient option, it isn't for everyone. People who decide on an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and take part in therapy and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis every day or a few days per week. This is helpful for individuals who have recently completed a much more thorough inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with only a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a very small amount of clients. For someone with more severe addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug rehab programs which offer treatment on a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous rehab option.