Individuals who would like to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehab client to participate in rehabilitation services without the commitment you might usually have to agree to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation center. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to solve substantial drug abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. People that do choose an outpatient rehab will typically show up at meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services part-time daily or a few days per week. This can be very helpful for many who have just completed a more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with only a brief history of drug use which is really a really small amount of clients. For someone with more significant drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug treatment centers that provide treatment on a long-term basis will be the more advantageous rehabilitation alternative.