Individuals who would like to maintain a lot of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would usually have to agree to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab facility. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to resolve substantial substance abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those who do choose an outpatient rehab will generally attend meetings and be a part of counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis every day or a few days a week. This is very helpful for individuals who have just completed an even more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and someone with only a short history of drug use which is really a very small number of clients. For someone with more severe drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities which offer rehabilitation on a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous treatment option.