Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab enables the treatment client to participate in treatment services with the same commitment you might usually have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab center. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to solve significant substance abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient possibility, it isn't for everybody. People who do choose an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis on a daily basis or a few days each week. This is helpful for many who have recently completed an even more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with just a brief history of drug use which is usually a very small amount of clients. For an individual with more severe drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug treatment programs that provide treatment over a long-term basis will probably be the more effective rehab alternative.