Individuals who wish to maintain a lot of flexibility within their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab should they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab enables 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 alcohol and drug rehab program. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to resolve substantial drug abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient option, it isn't for everybody. Those who decide on an outpatient rehab will typically take part in meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis on a daily basis or several days each week. This is often helpful for individuals who have just completed a far more thorough inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with only a brief history of substance abuse which is usually a very small amount of clients. For someone with more serious drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug rehab facilities which provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis will be the more effective rehabilitation alternative.