Individuals who wish to maintain a lot of flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the treatment client to take part in rehab services with the same commitment one would usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation center. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to resolve substantial substance abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those that do choose an outpatient rehab will generally show up at meetings and be a part of therapy and rehab services on a part-time basis each day or several days weekly. This is very helpful for many who have recently completed a far more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and for someone with only a short history of drug use which is usually a really small amount of clients. For someone with more serious addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities which provide rehab on a long-term basis will be the more advantageous rehabilitation choice.