Individuals who wish to maintain a lot of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to participate in rehabilitation services without the commitment you might usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug treatment center. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to resolve significant substance abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient option, it isn't for everybody. Those that choose an outpatient rehab will generally attend meetings and be a part of counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis every day or several days a week. This can be very helpful for those who have just completed a far more complete inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with just a short history of substance abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For someone with more serious drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment programs which offer treatment over a long-term basis will probably be the more beneficial rehab option.