Individuals who would like to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab when they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehabilitation client to participate in rehab services without the commitment one would normally have to consent to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation program. This doesn't often work in the treatment 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 possibility, it isn't for everyone. People that decide on an outpatient rehab will typically show up at meetings and take part in therapy and treatment services on a part-time basis every day or several days weekly. This is very helpful for those who have just completed a much more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with only a short history of drug use which is usually a really small amount of clients. For a person with more serious drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment programs which provide treatment on a long-term basis will probably be the more advantageous rehab choice.