Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab should they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehabilitation client to participate in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug treatment program. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to resolve significant drug abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient option, it isn't for everyone. Those that do choose an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and take part in therapy and rehabilitation services part-time every day or a few days per week. This is often helpful for many who have recently completed an even more complete inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, and someone with just a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For somebody with more significant addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment programs that provide treatment over a long-term basis will be the more effective rehab alternative.