Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab enables the rehabilitation client to participate in treatment services without the commitment you might usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug rehab program. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address substantial substance abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those that do decide on an outpatient rehab will usually show up at meetings and take part in counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis every day or a few days per week. This can be very helpful for those who have recently completed an even more thorough inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with only a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a very small amount of clients. For a person with more serious addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab centers that provide treatment over a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial rehab choice.