I'm with you bonym, I'm a baby consultant and specialize in children's sleep problems, and I practice both methods pu/pd and cc, which one I use, depends on how strong the parents are!, they usually have a preference. In my years of experiance cc does not break the trust between parents and child, if anything it gains it, when done properly, the child always knows the parents are close by and that they are just being taught a new way of falling asleep.
Homedad, the answer to your question, both methods are effective and if used consitstently both work.
CC works alot quicker, as the method used involves less confusion to the child,
pu/pd often takes alot longer, and can be more upsetting for the parents, as holding your sobbing child until he/she calms down, and then to leave in the cot, can prove heart wrenching.
I know how hard it is either way, with a child of my own, I used cc, but having the knowledge before hand , I practised it as a preventive rather than a cure to bad sleeping, I always made sure, I put my baby down awake.
Lonesmum..I am quite shocked that a sleep consultant, would make such an accusation, what she said is utter rubbish, and many sleep proffesionals would strongly disagree with her. It will be interesting if her methods she has taught you will work. good luck , hope so