Individuals who wish to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the treatment client to participate in treatment services with the same commitment one would usually have to agree to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment program. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address substantial substance abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. People who do choose an outpatient rehab will generally take part in meetings and take part in therapy and rehabilitation services part-time every day or a few days weekly. This is helpful for many who have just completed an even more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with only a short history of substance abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For a person with more severe addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehab centers that provide rehabilitation on a long-term basis will be the more advantageous rehab choice.