Individuals who wish to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to participate in treatment services without the commitment one would usually have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to resolve significant drug abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. People who do decide on an outpatient rehab will usually show up at meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis every day or a few days each week. This can be very helpful for individuals who have just completed a more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, or for someone with only a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a very small number of clients. For a person with more serious drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab centers which provide treatment on a long-term basis will be the more advantageous rehab option.