Individuals who want to maintain a lot of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab enables the treatment client to participate in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would normally have to agree to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address significant drug abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. Those that decide on an outpatient rehab will generally attend meetings and be a part of counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis on a daily basis or a few days each week. This is often helpful for those who have just completed an even more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with just a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a really small number of clients. For an individual with more significant drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation centers which offer treatment on a long-term basis will probably be the more beneficial treatment option.