Individuals who want to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to take part in rehabilitation services with the same commitment one would normally have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug rehab center. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to solve significant drug abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those who do decide on an outpatient rehab will ordinarily attend meetings and be a part of counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis each day or a few days each week. This is helpful for those who have recently completed an even more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with just a short history of substance abuse which is really a very small amount of clients. For somebody with more serious addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation programs that provide treatment over a long-term basis are going to be the more effective treatment alternative.