Individuals who would like to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab should they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the treatment client to participate in rehab services without the commitment you might ordinarily have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab program. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to resolve substantial drug abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune possibility, it isn't for everybody. Those that do decide on an outpatient rehab will usually show up at meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis on a daily basis or a few days per week. This is very helpful for many who have just completed a much more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with just a short history of substance abuse which is usually a really small percentage of clients. For someone with more severe addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab programs which provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis will probably be the more beneficial rehab alternative.