Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the rehabilitation client to participate in treatment services with the same commitment you might usually have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug rehab program. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to resolve significant drug abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune option, it isn't for everyone. Those who do decide on an outpatient rehab will usually attend meetings and take part in therapy and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis each day or a few days weekly. This is helpful for those who have just completed an even more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with only a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a very small amount of clients. For somebody with more serious drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehab facilities which offer rehabilitation on a long-term basis will be the more advantageous rehab alternative.