Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to take part in rehab services with the same commitment one would normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug treatment program. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to resolve substantial substance abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient option, it isn't for everybody. People who choose an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and rehabilitation services part-time every day or a few days per week. This is helpful for individuals who have recently completed a much more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with just a short history of drug use which is usually a very small number of clients. For an individual with more serious drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation centers that provide treatment over a long-term basis will probably be the more advantageous rehab option.