Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab if they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehabilitation client to participate in treatment services without the commitment you might usually have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation center. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to resolve significant substance abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. People that do choose an outpatient rehab will ordinarily take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and rehab services part-time daily or several days weekly. This can be very helpful for individuals who have recently completed a far more thorough inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, or for someone with only a short history of substance abuse which is usually a really small amount of clients. For a person with more severe drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug treatment facilities that provide rehab on a long-term basis will probably be the more advantageous rehabilitation alternative.