Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to participate in rehabilitation services with the same commitment one would usually have to consent to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment facility. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to address substantial drug abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient option, it isn't for everyone. Those who do choose an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and take part in counseling and rehab services part-time each day or several days each week. This is very helpful for many who have just completed a more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with just a short history of drug use which is really a really small amount of clients. For a person with more significant drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehab programs which offer rehab on a long-term basis will probably be the more advantageous rehab choice.