Individuals who wish to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab whenever they need rehabilitation for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to take part in treatment services without the commitment one would normally have to consent to in an inpatient or residential drug rehab facility. This doesn't always work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to address significant drug abuse problems. So even though an outpatient rehab may seem like an opportune option, it isn't for everybody. Those that choose an outpatient rehab will generally show up at meetings and be a part of therapy and treatment services part-time every day or a few days each week. This is helpful for those who have just completed an even more complete inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, and someone with only a short history of substance abuse which is really a really small number of clients. For someone with more significant drug abuse and dependency problems, inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab facilities which provide rehabilitation over a long-term basis are going to be the more beneficial treatment option.