Habilitation Services – Music (Mankisha Health Services (LLC)

Program Description

Mankisha Health Services LLC provides Music-Based Habilitation Services under the Arizona Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD). This program uses music as a structured, therapeutic, and educational tool to help members acquire, retain, and improve essential life skills. Music activities are individualized and person-centered, designed to foster independence, self-expression, and community participation while promoting the goals outlined in each member’s Individual Support Plan (ISP).

Service Model

  • Setting: Delivered in the member’s home or community-based environments.
  • Approach: Uses singing, rhythm, movement, instrument play, songwriting, and listening to music as habilitation tools.
  • Focus: Skill development in communication, social interaction, behavior regulation, emotional expression, and daily living abilities.
  • Integration: Services are coordinated with other supports (Supported Living, Employment, Therapy) to reinforce skills across environments.

Member Skill Areas Addressed Through Music

  • Communication: Improving verbal and non-verbal communication through lyrics, rhythm, and vocalization.
  • Socialization: Group music sessions to practice turn-taking, teamwork, and social engagement.
  • Behavioral Skills: Using music for calming strategies, focus, and positive behavior reinforcement.
  • Daily Living Skills: Incorporating rhythm and songs into routines (e.g., hygiene, chores, transitions).
  • Motor Skills: Enhancing coordination and fine/gross motor abilities through instrument play and movement.
  • Self-Expression & Confidence: Encouraging creativity and self-advocacy through music creation and performance.

Mankisha Staff Responsibilities

  • Deliver structured, music-based habilitation activities in alignment with each member’s ISP goals.
  • Adapt music activities to meet the developmental, behavioral, and sensory needs of each member.
  • Track progress, collect data, and document outcomes in compliance with DDD standards.
  • Collaborate with families, support coordinators, and interdisciplinary teams to ensure consistency of goals.
  • Promote skill generalization by connecting music activities to real-life situations and environments.

Program Benefits

  • Provides a fun and motivating way to learn and practice life skills.
  • Builds confidence, independence, and social connections.
  • Reduces anxiety and behavioral challenges through structured musical engagement.
  • Enhances member quality of life by combining habilitation with creativity and enjoyment.
  • Fully aligned with DDD’s mission of helping members achieve independence, community inclusion, and personal fulfillment.