Individuals who would like to maintain a lot of flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab when they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehab client to take part in treatment services without the commitment one would normally have to consent to within an inpatient or residential drug rehab facility. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address substantial substance abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those who decide on an outpatient rehab will usually show up at meetings and be a part of therapy and treatment services on a part-time basis on a daily basis or several days per week. This is helpful for individuals who have just completed a much more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with just a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For a person with more serious drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment facilities that provide treatment over a long-term basis will be the more effective treatment choice.