Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab if they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehab client to participate in rehab services with the same commitment one would usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment center. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to resolve substantial substance abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient possibility, it isn't for everybody. Those who choose an outpatient rehab will typically attend meetings and take part in therapy and rehab services part-time each day or several days per week. This is often helpful for individuals who have recently completed an even more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and someone with only a brief history of drug use which is really a very small amount of clients. For somebody with more serious addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation programs that provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis will probably be the more beneficial rehab choice.