Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab program. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to solve substantial substance abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient option, it isn't for everyone. Those who do decide on an outpatient rehab will typically attend meetings and take part in therapy and treatment services on a part-time basis each day or a few days weekly. This is often helpful for many who have recently completed an even more thorough inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with just a short history of drug use which is really a very small number of clients. For an individual with more significant addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment centers which offer rehab on a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous treatment choice.