Individuals who want to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab facility. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address significant substance abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune possibility, it isn't for everybody. People who choose an outpatient rehab will typically attend meetings and take part in therapy and treatment services on a part-time basis daily or a few days each week. This can be very helpful for many who have recently completed a more extensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with only a brief history of substance abuse which is really a very small percentage of clients. For an individual with more severe addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehab centers that provide rehab over a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous rehabilitation alternative.