Drug or alcohol rehab programs which are provided on an outpatient basis are available to addicted people who have circumstances which prevent them from being able to take part in an inpatient rehabilitation program. An outpatient drug and alcohol rehab program provides many of the same services as an inpatient program, but allows for flexibility as opposed to an inpatient drug rehab center where the person is required to stay and reside at the treatment facility until the treatment process is complete. Outpatient drug or alcohol treatment is also offered for individuals who have completed residential or inpatient treatment but also need a comprehensive aftercare and relapse prevention program which will provide further support and therapy to help them avoid relapse.

Persons with co-occurring mental and substance abuse disorders must handle both issues if there is any hope for them to become fully rehabilitated. Some people take drugs to relieve symptoms of mental health problems, and some people take drugs which then, in turn, brings about symptoms which mimic mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety. Drug treatment professionals know how to distinguish between the two, and can work with clients to correctly treat real mental health disorders in tandem with any other substance abuse treatment that is done with the individual. This has proven to be effective in keeping individuals with mental health problems off of drugs and mentally stable and productive.

Gays and Lesbians can sometimes have distinctive treatment needs when receiving substance abuse treatment. A specialized curriculum and treatment environment which is conducive to the needs of gays and lesbians is obtainable at certain drug treatment facilities across the nation which understand the unique needs and challenges which gays and lesbians will experience during recovery. Gay and lesbians can achieve full rehabilitation and recovery just like any other person in treatment, however it can be helpful for gays and lesbians to be in a supportive setting which doesn't judge them or segregate them because of their sexual preference.