Individuals who want to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to take part in rehabilitation services with the same commitment one would ordinarily have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment facility. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to address substantial drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everybody. Those that do choose an outpatient rehab will ordinarily attend meetings and take part in counseling and rehabilitation services part-time daily or a few days a week. This can be very helpful for many who have recently completed an even more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and someone with only a short history of drug abuse which is really a very small amount of clients. For somebody with more severe drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment facilities which provide rehabilitation on a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial rehabilitation alternative.