Individuals who wish to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to participate in rehab services without the commitment one would normally have to consent to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment center. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to solve significant substance abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. Those that choose an outpatient rehab will typically attend meetings and be a part of therapy and treatment services on a part-time basis daily or several days each week. This is often helpful for individuals who have recently completed a much more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with only a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a very small number of clients. For an individual with more significant addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment facilities that provide treatment over a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous rehab choice.