Individuals who wish to maintain a lot of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to take part in treatment services with the same commitment one would usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation program. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to resolve significant drug abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient option, it isn't for everybody. Those that do choose an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and take part in therapy and rehabilitation services part-time daily or a few days a week. This is helpful for many who have just completed a more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, or for someone with only a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a really small amount of clients. For someone with more significant addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation centers that provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis will be the more advantageous rehab alternative.