Personally, I think it is important for the therapist to remain as neutral as possible.

I think it is only natural that we get very curious about this person sitting across from us that we are spilling our deepest thoughts to.

However, there is such as thing as too much information. I guess I don't understand the power struggle that can ensue if there therapist seeks to maintain that neutrality.

I've definitely seen the quest for information backfire in horrible horrible ways on this board. You never know what piece of information is going to significantly affect your therapy.

That's not to say that you shouldn't inquire about qualifications, education, discliplinary actions etc.... That information should be given freely, but other personal stuff??

Well, best to let sleeping dogs lie I guess.