Individuals who wish to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the treatment client to take part in rehab services with the same commitment one would normally have to agree to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab program. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address substantial drug abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. Those who decide on an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services part-time every day or a few days a week. This is often helpful for many who have recently completed a far more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with just a short history of drug abuse which is really a really small percentage of clients. For a person with more significant drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation centers which provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis will be the more advantageous treatment option.