Individuals who wish to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would usually have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation facility. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to address significant drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those who do choose an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and rehabilitation services part-time daily or a few days a week. This is helpful for individuals who have just completed a more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, or for someone with just a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For a person with more severe drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug treatment programs which offer treatment over a long-term basis will be the more advantageous rehab option.