Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab should they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehab client to take part in treatment services without the commitment you might normally have to agree to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation program. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address significant drug abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune option, it isn't for everybody. People who decide on an outpatient rehab will usually show up at meetings and take part in counseling and treatment services on a part-time basis daily or a few days each week. This is very helpful for many who have just completed an even more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, or for someone with only a short history of drug abuse which is usually a very small amount of clients. For an individual with more severe drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug treatment programs that provide treatment on a long-term basis will be the more advantageous treatment alternative.