Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab enables the treatment client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would ordinarily have to consent to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehabilitation program. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to address substantial substance abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like an expedient possibility, it isn't for everybody. Those who choose an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and take part in counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis each day or a few days each week. This can be very helpful for those who have just completed a far more complete inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and someone with just a brief history of drug use which is usually a really small amount of clients. For somebody with more serious drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug treatment centers which offer rehabilitation over a long-term basis are going to be the more advantageous rehabilitation choice.