Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation center. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to resolve substantial drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient possibility, it isn't for everybody. People who decide on an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and take part in counseling and treatment services on a part-time basis daily or a few days a week. This is very helpful for individuals who have recently completed a more complete inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with only a short history of substance abuse which is usually a really small amount of clients. For someone with more serious drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab programs which offer treatment on a long-term basis are going to be the more effective treatment alternative.