Individuals who would like to maintain a lot of flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the treatment client to participate in rehabilitation services with the same commitment one would normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment program. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to solve substantial drug abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient possibility, it isn't for everybody. Those that do choose an outpatient rehab will generally take part in meetings and be a part of therapy and treatment services part-time daily or several days a week. This is helpful for those who have just completed a more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with just a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a really small percentage of clients. For a person with more significant addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment facilities which offer rehabilitation over a long-term basis will be the more beneficial treatment alternative.