Individuals who would like to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab when they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to participate in rehab services with the same commitment one would normally have to consent to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab facility. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to solve substantial substance abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune option, it isn't for everybody. Those that decide on an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and take part in therapy and rehab services part-time each day or a few days per week. This can be very helpful for many who have just completed a much more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, or for someone with just a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a really small percentage of clients. For a person with more significant drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab facilities which offer rehab over a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial rehabilitation choice.