Individuals who would like to maintain some flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab when they need treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the rehab client to participate in rehab services without the commitment one would usually have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug treatment program. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, specifically those clients who need to solve significant drug abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everybody. Those that choose an outpatient rehab will ordinarily attend meetings and take part in counseling and rehab services on a part-time basis each day or several days a week. This is often helpful for many who have recently completed a far more complete inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or maintenance step, or someone with only a brief history of drug use which is really a very small number of clients. For somebody with more significant addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab facilities that provide treatment over a long-term basis will be the more effective rehabilitation choice.