Individuals who would like to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to participate in rehab services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to agree to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab program. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to address significant substance abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient option, it isn't for everyone. Those that choose an outpatient rehab will typically attend meetings and take part in counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis every day or a few days each week. This is often helpful for individuals who have recently completed a more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and someone with just a short history of substance abuse which is really a really small amount of clients. For a person with more significant addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab facilities that provide rehab over a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial rehab choice.