Individuals who wish to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehab client to participate in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would normally have to consent to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment facility. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to resolve significant substance abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient option, it isn't for everyone. People who do choose an outpatient rehab will usually attend meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis each day or a few days per week. This is helpful for many who have just completed a more complete inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with only a brief history of drug use which is usually a very small amount of clients. For a person with more serious drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs that provide treatment on a long-term basis will be the more advantageous rehab choice.