Individuals who wish to maintain a lot of flexibility in their lives can take advantage of an outpatient rehab when they need rehabilitation for drug or alcohol abuse. Outpatient rehab makes it possible for the treatment client to participate in rehab services with the same commitment one would normally have to consent to within an inpatient or residential drug rehabilitation facility. This doesn't always work in the rehab client's favor however, specifically those individuals who need to solve substantial substance abuse problems. So although an outpatient rehab might appear to be a convenient possibility, it isn't for everyone. Those who do decide on an outpatient rehab will usually take part in meetings and be a part of counseling and treatment services on a part-time basis daily or a few days per week. This can be very helpful for many who have recently completed a far more thorough inpatient or residential program as a good aftercare or upkeep step, or someone with only a brief history of drug use which is usually a very small percentage of clients. For someone with more serious addiction and dependency issues, inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab facilities which offer rehabilitation over a long-term basis will be the more advantageous treatment alternative.