Individuals who would like to maintain some 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 participate in treatment services with the same commitment one would normally have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab program. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to resolve significant drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient option, it isn't for everybody. People that do choose an outpatient rehab will usually attend meetings and take part in therapy and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis each day or several days a week. This is helpful for many who have recently completed a much more extensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with just a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a very small amount of clients. For somebody with more serious drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug rehab programs that provide treatment on a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial rehabilitation option.