Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab enables the treatment client to take part in rehab services without the commitment one would normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug treatment center. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to solve substantial substance abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everybody. People who do decide on an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and be a part of therapy and treatment services part-time every day or a few days a week. This is very helpful for those who have recently completed a more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with only a short history of drug abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For a person with more serious drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug treatment programs which provide rehabilitation on a long-term basis will be the more beneficial treatment option.