Individuals who want to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab enables the rehab client to participate in rehab services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation program. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address significant drug abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune possibility, it isn't for everyone. People who do decide on an outpatient rehab will ordinarily take part in meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis daily or a few days per week. This is very helpful for many who have just completed a much more extensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with only a brief history of substance abuse which is really a very small amount of clients. For an individual with more severe addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab programs which provide treatment on a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous rehabilitation choice.