Individuals who want to maintain a lot of flexibility within 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 rehabilitation client to take part in treatment services with the same commitment one would normally have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation program. This doesn't often work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address significant drug abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everybody. People that choose an outpatient rehab will ordinarily show up at meetings and be a part of therapy and treatment services part-time every day or a few days per week. This can be very helpful for many who have recently completed an even more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with only a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a really small amount of clients. For an individual with more severe drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation programs that provide treatment over a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial treatment choice.