Yes controlled crying is leaving your baby to cry in increasing amounts of time until they fall asleep. Some babies do need a little cry to sleep - even Pinky knew of a baby who would cry to be held, so mum would put her down, she'd have a very short outburst and then magically fall asleep, so it was as if she had some energy to burn.

The point I chose to go to the MBU was when Marisa would be distressed down in the cot, hated her carseat and she would also cry in my arms so you can imagine my distress when even two weeks at the MBU did not work. So I completely understand desperation and exhaustion that leads to trying all sorts of things. There are no more options offered for those who fail sleep school.