Individuals who wish to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehabilitation services with the same commitment one would usually have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab facility. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address substantial substance abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. Those who choose an outpatient rehab will typically show up at meetings and be a part of counseling and rehab services part-time daily or several days per week. This is often helpful for individuals who have just completed a more thorough inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with only a short history of drug abuse which is usually a very small number of clients. For someone with more severe drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities that provide treatment over a long-term basis will be the more beneficial rehabilitation choice.