Individuals who would like to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab will allow for the treatment client to take part in rehab services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation facility. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to solve substantial substance abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient possibility, it isn't for everybody. Those who choose an outpatient rehab will generally take part in meetings and take part in counseling and rehab services part-time each day or a few days a week. This is very helpful for individuals who have recently completed a far more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, and for someone with only a short history of drug use which is usually a very small amount of clients. For somebody with more severe addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab centers that provide rehabilitation on a long-term basis will be the more effective treatment choice.