Individuals who wish to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehab client to participate in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would normally have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab center. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address substantial substance abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient option, it isn't for everyone. Those who choose an outpatient rehab will generally show up at meetings and take part in counseling and rehabilitation services part-time each day or several days weekly. This is helpful for individuals who have just completed an even more complete inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and for someone with only a short history of drug use which is usually a very small amount of clients. For someone with more serious drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab centers which provide treatment on a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial rehabilitation choice.