Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to take part in treatment services with the same commitment one would normally have to agree to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab program. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to resolve substantial drug abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient possibility, it isn't for everyone. People who do decide on an outpatient rehab will usually attend meetings and be a part of therapy and treatment services on a part-time basis on a daily basis or several days weekly. This is often helpful for those who have recently completed a far more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with only a short history of substance abuse which is usually a really small amount of clients. For an individual with more significant drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment facilities that provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial treatment option.