Individuals who want to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehab for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab enables the rehabilitation client to participate in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment program. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address substantial drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be an opportune possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those that do choose an outpatient rehab will usually show up at meetings and take part in counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis daily or a few days each week. This is often helpful for many who have just completed a much more complete inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with only a short history of drug use which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For a person with more serious drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation centers which offer treatment on a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial rehabilitation option.