Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehab client to participate in rehabilitation services with the same commitment one would normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab program. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to address substantial drug abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune possibility, it isn't for everybody. Those who do decide on an outpatient rehab will usually show up at meetings and be a part of therapy and rehab services on a part-time basis each day or several days a week. This is often helpful for many who have just completed a more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with just a short history of substance abuse which is usually a really small percentage of clients. For somebody with more serious drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug treatment facilities that provide rehab over a long-term basis will be the more effective treatment option.