Individuals who wish to maintain a lot of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab should they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to participate in treatment services without the commitment one would normally have to agree to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab program. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to resolve significant substance abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. People that do decide on an outpatient rehab will generally show up at meetings and take part in therapy and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis every day or several days a week. This is helpful for many who have just completed a far more extensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with just a brief history of substance abuse which is really a very small amount of clients. For a person with more serious addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment programs which offer rehab on a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous rehabilitation option.