From Lecture Halls to Counselling Rooms: Navigating the Transition From Academic Training to Private Practice in Social Work in Botswana – A Case Study of Jo’speaks

This article explores the transition from academic training to private practice in social work within the Botswana context, focusing on the lived experiences of a recent graduate through a case study of Jo’Speaks, a multidisciplinary wellness practice that focuses on motivation, counselling, life coaching and social skills training. The paper highlights the multifaceted challenges that emerging practitioners face ranging from limited business acumen and emotional preparedness to regulatory ambiguity and outlines the strategies used by Jo’Speaks to support early-career social workers. By integrating reflective thematic analysis, curriculum mapping, and policy review, the findings emphasize the need for enhanced mentorship, practical entrepreneurship education, and better academic-practice alignment. The article contributes to the emerging body of work on the localization of private practice in social work, particularly in developing contexts, and suggests pathways to support professional readiness and sustainable practice.