Individuals who would like to maintain a lot of flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to participate in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment facility. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address significant substance abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. Those who decide on an outpatient rehab will generally take part in meetings and take part in therapy and treatment services part-time each day or several days a week. This can be very helpful for those who have recently completed a more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with only a short history of substance abuse which is really a very small amount of clients. For an individual with more severe addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment programs which provide rehab over a long-term basis will be the more beneficial rehabilitation choice.