Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab enables the treatment client to take part in rehab services without the commitment you might normally have to consent to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab program. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address substantial substance abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. Those that do choose an outpatient rehab will generally attend meetings and be a part of counseling and treatment services on a part-time basis each day or several days each week. This is often helpful for many who have recently completed a far more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and someone with just a short history of substance abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For an individual with more severe drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation facilities which provide rehabilitation on a long-term basis will probably be the more effective rehabilitation choice.