Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the treatment client to participate in rehab services with the same commitment you might usually have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation program. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to solve significant drug abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient possibility, it isn't for everyone. People that do decide on an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis each day or several days each week. This is often helpful for those who have just completed a much more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and someone with only a short history of substance abuse which is really a very small number of clients. For someone with more severe addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab centers that provide treatment on a long-term basis will be the more beneficial treatment option.