Individuals who would like to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the treatment client to take part in treatment services with the same commitment one would ordinarily have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab facility. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to solve significant drug abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient possibility, it isn't for everyone. People who decide on an outpatient rehab will usually show up at meetings and be a part of counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis every day or several days weekly. This can be very helpful for those who have recently completed a more complete inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with just a short history of drug use which is really a really small amount of clients. For an individual with more severe drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation facilities that provide treatment over a long-term basis will be the more advantageous rehab option.