Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to participate in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would normally have to consent to within an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol treatment facility. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to resolve substantial drug abuse problems. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. Those that decide on an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and take part in counseling and treatment services on a part-time basis on a daily basis or a few days a week. This is helpful for individuals who have just completed a more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and someone with just a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For somebody with more significant drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation facilities which offer rehabilitation over a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous rehab choice.