Individuals who want to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to participate in treatment services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to agree to within an inpatient or residential drug rehab facility. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to resolve significant drug abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everybody. Those who choose an outpatient rehab will typically attend meetings and take part in therapy and rehab services on a part-time basis every day or a few days per week. This is helpful for those who have just completed a more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with only a short history of drug use which is usually a very small amount of clients. For someone with more severe addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug treatment programs which offer rehabilitation on a long-term basis are going to be the more effective rehab alternative.