Individuals who wish to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab should they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to participate in treatment services with the same commitment one would usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab program. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address significant drug abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient possibility, it isn't for everyone. People that decide on an outpatient rehab will typically attend meetings and take part in therapy and rehab services part-time daily or a few days per week. This is very helpful for many who have recently completed a far more complete inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with just a brief history of drug use which is usually a really small percentage of clients. For an individual with more serious drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities which offer rehab on a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous rehab choice.