Individuals who want to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab should they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the treatment client to participate in rehab services with the same commitment one would normally have to agree to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab program. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to address substantial drug abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient option, it isn't for everybody. People who decide on an outpatient rehab will generally take part in meetings and take part in therapy and rehab services part-time daily or a few days each week. This is very helpful for individuals who have recently completed an even more thorough inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with just a brief history of drug use which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For somebody with more serious drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab facilities which offer treatment on a long-term basis are going to be the more effective rehabilitation choice.