Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehab client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment you might usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation center. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to resolve substantial substance abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient possibility, it isn't for everybody. Those who do decide on an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis every day or a few days a week. This can be very helpful for individuals who have just completed a far more complete inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with only a brief history of drug use which is really a really small amount of clients. For a person with more significant addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug treatment centers which provide rehabilitation on a long-term basis will be the more effective treatment alternative.