Individuals who want to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab should they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to take part in rehabilitation services with the same commitment one would usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation center. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to resolve substantial substance abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient option, it isn't for everybody. Those that do decide on an outpatient rehab will usually attend meetings and be a part of counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis every day or a few days each week. This is very helpful for many who have recently completed a more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with just a short history of drug use which is usually a very small amount of clients. For somebody with more serious drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug treatment facilities which provide rehab on a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous rehabilitation alternative.