Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab enables the rehabilitation client to participate in treatment services with the same commitment one would usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation program. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address substantial drug abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. Those who do choose an outpatient rehab will ordinarily take part in meetings and take part in therapy and treatment services part-time daily or several days a week. This is helpful for individuals who have just completed an even more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with just a brief history of drug use which is usually a really small amount of clients. For somebody with more serious drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehab facilities that provide treatment on a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous treatment alternative.