Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehabilitation client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment you might usually have to consent to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation center. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to resolve substantial substance abuse issues. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those who decide on an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and treatment services on a part-time basis daily or several days each week. This is often helpful for individuals who have just completed a much more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with just a brief history of drug abuse which is usually a really small amount of clients. For an individual with more severe addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation facilities that provide treatment over a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial treatment option.