Individuals who want to maintain a lot of flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehab client to participate in rehabilitation services without the commitment you might ordinarily have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment facility. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to address substantial substance abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everybody. Those who do decide on an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and treatment services on a part-time basis each day or several days weekly. This is very helpful for many who have recently completed a much more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with just a brief history of drug use which is usually a really small amount of clients. For somebody with more serious drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehab facilities that provide rehab over a long-term basis will be the more advantageous rehabilitation option.