Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would usually have to agree to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment program. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to resolve substantial substance abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient option, it isn't for everybody. People that do decide on an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and treatment services part-time each day or a few days a week. This is often helpful for those who have just completed a more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with just a brief history of substance abuse which is really a very small percentage of clients. For a person with more significant drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab programs which offer treatment over a long-term basis will probably be the more effective rehabilitation choice.