Individuals who want to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab should they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the treatment client to participate in rehab services with the same commitment one would normally have to consent to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address substantial substance abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient option, it isn't for everybody. Those who do decide on an outpatient rehab will generally take part in meetings and take part in therapy and treatment services on a part-time basis every day or a few days a week. This is helpful for those who have recently completed a more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and for someone with only a brief history of drug abuse which is really a very small percentage of clients. For a person with more severe drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation facilities which offer rehab on a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial rehabilitation option.