Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehab client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment you might ordinarily have to agree to in an inpatient or residential drug treatment center. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to address significant substance abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient option, it isn't for everybody. People that do choose an outpatient rehab will generally take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis every day or a few days per week. This is helpful for many who have recently completed a more extensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with only a short history of substance abuse which is really a really small amount of clients. For a person with more serious addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs which offer rehab on a long-term basis will be the more beneficial rehabilitation option.