Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab should they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to participate in rehab services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation program. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to address substantial drug abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. Those that do decide on an outpatient rehab will usually show up at meetings and take part in therapy and rehab services on a part-time basis daily or several days a week. This is often helpful for many who have just completed a more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and someone with only a brief history of substance abuse which is really a really small amount of clients. For an individual with more severe addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab programs that provide treatment over a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous rehab choice.