Individuals who would like to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the treatment client to take part in treatment services without the commitment one would normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment facility. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to resolve substantial substance abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient possibility, it isn't for everyone. People who decide on an outpatient rehab will usually attend meetings and be a part of counseling and rehabilitation services part-time daily or several days each week. This is helpful for individuals who have just completed an even more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with only a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a very small amount of clients. For someone with more severe drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab facilities which provide rehabilitation on a long-term basis are going to be the more effective rehabilitation alternative.