Individuals who would like to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab enables the rehabilitation client to take part in rehab services with the same commitment one would normally have to consent to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment program. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to resolve substantial drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune possibility, it isn't for everybody. People that do choose an outpatient rehab will generally show up at meetings and take part in counseling and rehab services part-time every day or a few days each week. This is very helpful for those who have just completed an even more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with only a short history of drug abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For a person with more severe addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug treatment centers which provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis will be the more effective rehabilitation alternative.