Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab should they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to participate in rehab services without the commitment you might normally have to consent to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab center. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to solve significant substance abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient option, it isn't for everybody. People who do 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 weekly. This is helpful for many who have recently completed an even more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with just a short history of substance abuse which is usually a very small amount of clients. For somebody with more serious addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug treatment centers which offer rehabilitation over a long-term basis will be the more advantageous rehab alternative.