Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab enables the treatment client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation center. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to resolve significant drug abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune possibility, it isn't for everyone. People that do choose an outpatient rehab will typically show up at meetings and be a part of therapy and rehab services on a part-time basis every day or several days per week. This is very helpful for many who have just completed a far more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with only a short history of substance abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For an individual with more severe drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab centers that provide treatment on a long-term basis will probably be the more advantageous rehabilitation option.