Individuals who wish to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to take part in rehab services without the commitment one would usually have to consent to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab facility. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address substantial substance abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those who choose an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis every day or a few days each week. This is very helpful for many who have recently completed an even more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with only a brief history of drug use which is really a very small amount of clients. For somebody with more severe drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug treatment facilities which offer treatment over a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous treatment alternative.