Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the treatment client to take part in treatment services with the same commitment one would ordinarily have to consent to within an inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation facility. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to address significant drug abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everybody. Those that decide on an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis every day or a few days weekly. This is helpful for those who have recently completed a more thorough inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with only a short history of drug abuse which is usually a really small amount of clients. For an individual with more serious drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment centers that provide rehab over a long-term basis will be the more advantageous rehabilitation alternative.