Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehab client to participate in treatment services without the commitment you might normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab center. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to resolve substantial drug abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those that choose an outpatient rehab will ordinarily show up at meetings and take part in therapy and rehab services on a part-time basis every day or a few days weekly. This is helpful for those who have recently completed a far more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with only a brief history of substance abuse which is really a really small number of clients. For a person with more severe addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug treatment programs that provide rehabilitation on a long-term basis are going to be the more effective rehab option.