Individuals who want to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab when they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehab client to participate in rehab services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to agree to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab center. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to resolve substantial drug abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune possibility, it isn't for everyone. People who do decide on an outpatient rehab will typically attend meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis each day or a few days each week. This is helpful for many who have just completed a far more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with only a short history of substance abuse which is really a very small amount of clients. For an individual with more severe drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug rehab programs which provide rehabilitation on a long-term basis will be the more beneficial rehab choice.