Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the treatment client to participate in rehab services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment program. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to address significant substance abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune possibility, it isn't for everyone. People who do decide on an outpatient rehab will generally attend meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services part-time every day or a few days each week. This is helpful for those who have just completed a more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with just a short history of substance abuse which is really a very small amount of clients. For an individual with more serious addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities which offer treatment over a long-term basis will be the more advantageous rehabilitation alternative.