Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the treatment client to take part in treatment services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to agree to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab program. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address significant substance abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune possibility, it isn't for everybody. People that do choose an outpatient rehab will typically show up at meetings and be a part of therapy and treatment services part-time every day or a few days each week. This is very helpful for those who have just completed a much more complete inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with only a short history of drug abuse which is usually a really small number of clients. For somebody with more serious addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment facilities that provide treatment over a long-term basis will be the more beneficial treatment choice.