Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehabilitation services with the same commitment you might normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab program. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to address significant drug abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. People that decide on an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and take part in therapy and treatment services on a part-time basis daily or a few days per week. This can be very helpful for many who have just completed an even more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with only a brief history of substance abuse which is really a very small amount of clients. For someone with more significant addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug treatment facilities which offer treatment on a long-term basis are going to be the more effective rehab alternative.