Individuals who wish to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab if they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehabilitation services with the same commitment one would usually have to agree to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab program. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address significant drug abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. Those who do choose an outpatient rehab will typically attend meetings and take part in therapy and treatment services on a part-time basis daily or a few days each week. This is often helpful for individuals who have recently completed a much more complete inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and for someone with only a short history of drug use which is usually a very small amount of clients. For a person with more severe drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehab centers that provide rehab on a long-term basis will be the more advantageous rehabilitation alternative.