Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever 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 consent to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation program. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to address substantial substance abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient possibility, it isn't for everyone. People that decide on an outpatient rehab will generally attend meetings and take part in therapy and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis each day or a few days per week. This is helpful for individuals who have just completed a far more thorough inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with just a brief history of drug abuse which is really a really small number of clients. For someone with more serious addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment centers which provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis will be the more beneficial rehabilitation option.