Individuals who would like to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab should they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to take part in treatment services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to consent to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment program. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address substantial drug abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. People that choose an outpatient rehab will ordinarily show up at meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis every day or several days weekly. This can be very helpful for many who have just completed a much more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with just a brief history of substance abuse which is really a very small percentage of clients. For an individual with more serious drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab centers that provide treatment on a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial rehab alternative.