Individuals who wish to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab whenever they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to participate in treatment services without the commitment one would usually have to agree to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab center. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address significant substance abuse issues. So while an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. People who do decide on an outpatient rehab will generally show up at meetings and be a part of counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis on a daily basis or a few days a week. This is often helpful for those who have recently completed an even more complete inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, and for someone with only a brief history of drug use which is really a very small number of clients. For somebody with more significant drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab centers that provide treatment over a long-term basis will be the more advantageous treatment alternative.