Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the treatment client to participate in rehab services without the commitment you might usually have to agree to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to resolve significant drug abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient possibility, it isn't for everybody. People who do decide on an outpatient rehab will ordinarily take part in meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis each day or a few days a week. This is very helpful for those who have recently completed a more complete inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, and someone with just a short history of drug use which is usually a really small amount of clients. For someone with more serious addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation facilities which offer rehab on a long-term basis will be the more advantageous rehabilitation option.