Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to participate in treatment services without the commitment you might normally have to consent to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment program. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address substantial drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient option, it isn't for everyone. Those that do decide on an outpatient rehab will usually attend meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services part-time each day or several days per week. This is often helpful for individuals who have recently completed an even more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with just a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For someone with more serious drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation centers which offer treatment over a long-term basis will be the more advantageous treatment option.