[PGR88]

But they do seem to be driven to the profession for some reason.

I am an outside observer, probably like you. I just call it as I see it. Most "mental health professionals" I meet are strange. I know one whose kids are goth drug addicts and she walks her cat around the neighborhood on a leash. Another I know has the worst B.O. you ever smelled. Another I know is on his 4th marriage. I could go on.....

[dhs12345]

Spot on! I guess that you could make the argument that it makes them a better doctor. :)

Some very brilliant people are strange, antisocial, have weird quirks, etc. So maybe doctors have their share of them?

Then again, can they make rational, objective, assessments of a situation or person and offer effective treatment if their perception is compromised by their own experiences or brain wiring?

The curriculum is pretty rigorous. Although there are probably varying degrees of effort depending upon the certification and degree level.