Individuals who want to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to participate in rehabilitation services with the same commitment one would normally have to consent to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment facility. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to address significant substance abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those that decide on an outpatient rehab will usually show up at meetings and take part in counseling and rehab services part-time daily or a few days weekly. This is helpful for those who have just completed an even more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with only a short history of drug use which is really a really small amount of clients. For somebody with more serious addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehab programs that provide treatment on a long-term basis will be the more effective rehabilitation choice.