Individuals who want to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to take part in treatment services without the commitment one would usually have to consent to within an inpatient or residential drug rehab program. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to solve significant substance abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everybody. Those that choose an outpatient rehab will usually attend meetings and take part in therapy and rehab services part-time each day or a few days a week. This can be very helpful for those who have just completed a more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with just a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a really small percentage of clients. For someone with more serious drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab centers which provide rehab over a long-term basis will probably be the more advantageous rehabilitation option.