Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the treatment client to take part in treatment services with the same commitment you might normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment center. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to resolve significant drug abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune possibility, it isn't for everyone. People that choose an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and be a part of therapy and rehab services part-time every day or a few days per week. This is very helpful for those who have just completed a more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with just a short history of drug use which is usually a very small number of clients. For an individual with more significant addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab programs which offer treatment on a long-term basis will be the more effective rehab option.