Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment you might usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation facility. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address substantial drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. People who do choose an outpatient rehab will generally attend meetings and be a part of therapy and treatment services on a part-time basis every day or a few days a week. This is helpful for those who have recently completed a more extensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with only a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a very small amount of clients. For an individual with more severe drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug treatment programs that provide rehabilitation on a long-term basis will probably be the more effective rehabilitation choice.