Individuals who would like to maintain a certain amount of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab if they need treatment for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the rehab client to take part in rehab services without the commitment one would usually have to agree to within an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab facility. This doesn't often work in the rehabilitation client's favor however, particularly for those individuals who need to address significant substance abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab may seem like a convenient possibility, it isn't for everybody. People who decide on an outpatient rehab will generally attend meetings and be a part of counseling and rehabilitation services part-time on a daily basis or a few days weekly. This is often helpful for those who have recently completed a far more thorough inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with just a brief history of drug abuse which is really a very small amount of clients. For someone with more serious drug abuse and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities that provide rehab on a long-term basis will probably be the more advantageous rehabilitation alternative.