Individuals who wish to maintain a certain amount of flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the treatment client to participate in treatment services without the commitment one would normally have to agree to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab center. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to resolve significant drug abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune possibility, it isn't for everybody. Those that do choose an outpatient rehab will typically show up at meetings and take part in counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis daily or several days weekly. This is often helpful for those who have recently completed an even more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or for someone with just a short history of drug abuse which is usually a really small percentage of clients. For someone with more significant drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab centers that provide rehab over a long-term basis are going to be the more effective treatment option.