Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab should they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehab client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment one would usually have to consent to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment center. This doesn't always work in the treatment client's favor however, particularly for those clients who need to address substantial drug abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient option, it isn't for everyone. People who do choose an outpatient rehab will ordinarily attend meetings and be a part of counseling and rehabilitation services on a part-time basis daily or a few days per week. This can be very helpful for individuals who have just completed a more comprehensive inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, or for someone with only a brief history of drug abuse which is really a really small number of clients. For someone with more significant drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs which offer treatment on a long-term basis will be the more effective rehabilitation option.