Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehab services without the commitment one would normally have to consent to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to address significant drug abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. People that decide on an outpatient rehab will generally attend meetings and take part in counseling and treatment services on a part-time basis each day or several days per week. This is often helpful for those who have just completed a more thorough inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, or for someone with just a short history of drug abuse which is usually a very small number of clients. For someone with more severe addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation centers that provide treatment on a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial rehabilitation choice.