Individuals who wish to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to take part in rehab services with the same commitment you might ordinarily have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab program. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to address significant substance abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient option, it isn't for everybody. Those that do decide on an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and take part in counseling and treatment services part-time daily or several days weekly. This is helpful for individuals who have recently completed a far more complete inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with just a short history of substance abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For an individual with more severe addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment programs which offer rehab over a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial treatment alternative.