Hi - There is a drop down menu on the one-page-lister where you can select/de-select the Sellathon counter. This is located just under the blue 'select a template' link. There is also an account setting for the counter, just click the 'my account' tab.
There is a learning curve with any new program. Everyone has to go through the initial pain. Auctiva is great once you get over the hump and settle into a routine.
You've got a ton of free templates, as many big photos as you care to put on your listing for free, great staff and member assistance, just to name a few of the perks. There are MANY very happy users of Auctiva who are having no trouble at all and saving a LOT of money in the process. Give it time. It will be worth it.