From what I've gathered reading most of the posts here (haven't had the chance to read all), and knowing not much at all about the Tree Of Life, the ToL is not a method, it is one element of a larger methodology. It is more of a framework. While OP here seemed to understand it as a method. This discussion is very informative. I watched Barlow as well in my early days trying to understand Tarot.
When ToL is used in conjunction with Tarot, it can be a method and also framework too.
For example, when I do ToL spread with Tarot, it instructs how to read the Tarot. I usually use 10 sephiroth + 2 more (Ayn Sof, Daath = they become sephiroths too), which gives total 12 sephiroths. Card on Ayn Sof position tells what the God wants, the Will of God. Card on Daath sephiroth tells about the solutions for the problems in the readings ... etc.
The 12 sephiroths sometimes also works with Astrological Houses, which deepens and widens the scope of the readings. ToL becomes dynamic methods for Tarot spreads, because it changes the principles of the readings depending on the type of the readings.
Frameworks don't change. They are a static way to see or interpret the anatomy or inner workings of the universe, life or system.
ToL works well for both purposes.