Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to participate in treatment services without the commitment one would normally have to agree to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab program. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to address significant drug abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everybody. Those that do decide on an outpatient rehab will usually attend meetings and take part in therapy and rehab services on a part-time basis daily or several days a week. This is very 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 substance abuse which is really a very small number of clients. For an individual with more significant drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab programs which provide treatment over a long-term basis will probably be the more advantageous rehab choice.