Individuals who would like to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehab client to participate in rehab services without the commitment you might normally have to consent to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation center. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to address significant drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. Those who decide on an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis every day or a few days each week. This is often helpful for individuals who have recently completed a far more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with just a brief history of drug use which is really a very small number of clients. For a person with more severe addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehab facilities which provide rehabilitation on a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous rehabilitation alternative.