Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab should they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment you might usually have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation facility. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to solve significant substance abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. People who decide on an outpatient rehab will generally take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and treatment services part-time on a daily basis or a few days each week. This is often helpful for individuals who have recently completed a more complete inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with only a short history of substance abuse which is usually a really small amount of clients. For a person with more significant drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment programs that provide treatment over a long-term basis will be the more advantageous rehabilitation alternative.