Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the treatment client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment you might ordinarily have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug treatment center. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to address substantial substance abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient possibility, it isn't for everyone. People that choose an outpatient rehab will usually attend meetings and be a part of counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis each day or a few days a week. This can be very helpful for those who have recently completed a more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with only a short history of substance abuse which is really a really small percentage of clients. For someone with more significant addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab facilities that provide treatment on a long-term basis will be the more beneficial treatment alternative.