Individuals who want to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab if they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible 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 alcohol and drug rehabilitation facility. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to resolve substantial substance abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient option, it isn't for everybody. Those who choose an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and rehab services part-time each day or a few days per week. This is often helpful for individuals who have recently completed an even more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with only a short history of substance abuse which is usually a really small percentage of clients. For an individual with more severe drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug rehab centers that provide rehab over a long-term basis will probably be the more advantageous treatment option.