Individuals who would like to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab should they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to participate in rehab services without the commitment you might usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation center. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to solve significant substance abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient option, it isn't for everybody. People that do choose an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and be a part of therapy and rehab services on a part-time basis every day or a few days per week. This can be very helpful for individuals who have recently completed a much more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with just 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 rehab programs which offer rehab over a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous rehab choice.