Individuals who would like to maintain a lot of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to participate in rehab services with the same commitment one would normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation center. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to resolve substantial drug abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those who do decide on an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services part-time every day or a few days weekly. This is helpful for individuals who have just completed a far more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with only a short history of drug use which is really a really small amount of clients. For a person with more serious addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation programs that provide treatment over a long-term basis will probably be the more advantageous rehabilitation option.