Topping for more bud sites and bushy plants doesn't bother me.
How about topping the main stem, and after awhile tie down the two main stem colas that grow as a result of the topping? Also, when the side branches get big, top a few of them too. When I top side branches I try to keep it symmetric. For example, if I top a side branch, I also top its mate that's opposite it. This is just a suggestion; there are many different ways to do it. Personally, I only top once per branch. That is to say, I don't top new growth that develops as a result of the original pruning.
Above, I recommended that you tie down the top colas, because that will encourage the side branches to grow, and stimulate new side branches to develop as well. Plus, depending on how much time you let your plants vegetate, you can also tie down side branches.
How about clicking on the Resources link for information on topping and low stress training.
Don't be afraid to top your plants, they'll get nice and bushy like that. Plus, when you top, you only need to snip off the tiny new shoots that are situated between the two existing branch tip shoots.
