Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab if they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab enables the rehabilitation client to participate in rehabilitation services without the commitment you might normally have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment center. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address significant substance abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everybody. People that do choose an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and be a part of therapy and rehabilitation services part-time each day or several days a week. This can be very helpful for those who have recently completed a far more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with just a short history of drug use which is usually a very small amount of clients. For a person with more severe drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs which provide treatment over a long-term basis are going to be the more effective treatment option.