Individuals who want to maintain some flexibility within their lives can engage in an outpatient rehab if they need rehab for substance abuse. Outpatient rehab allows for the treatment client to take part in rehabilitation services without the commitment you might usually have to agree to in an inpatient or residential alcohol and drug rehab program. This doesn't often work in the treatment client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to solve substantial drug abuse issues. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be an expedient option, it isn't for everyone. People who do decide on an outpatient rehab will usually show up at meetings and be a part of counseling and treatment services on a part-time basis daily or several days each week. This is very helpful for those who have just completed a much more complete inpatient or residential program as an effective aftercare or maintenance step, and someone with just a short history of drug abuse which is usually a very small number of clients. For an individual with more significant addiction and dependency problems, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers which provide treatment on a long-term basis will probably be the more advantageous treatment option.