I think transference can happen, but isn't imperative for good therapy to occur.
Arming yourself with an awareness of transference won't prevent it, in fact I think there's a greater chance of denial if you feel you already know all about it. Feelings have a way of creeping up on you and biting you in the backside.
My first T thought he knew it all, but was blind to the obvious countertransference that went on.
Also, transference doesn't always hurt, it depends on the individual, the relationship and the therapist's skill in handling it.