Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab should they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the treatment client to participate in treatment services with the same commitment one would normally have to agree to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment program. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to resolve substantial drug abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everybody. Those that do decide on an outpatient rehab will generally take part in meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis each day or a few days a week. This is often helpful for many who have recently completed a more extensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with just a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a very small number of clients. For a person with more severe addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment programs that provide rehab over a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous rehab alternative.