Kristin,
Like teachers, every student doesnt respond well to every teacher. You need to find a teacher that will work with you, that has the same goals as yourself and makes you comfortable.
Training classes are a way to have a "qualified" professional observe your training methods and help
you be the best trainer possible. The trainers focus should be on YOU and not the dog. She/he is there to teach you not the dog. that is why it is important to find a trainer with the same goals as yourself.
With training devices, remember they are crutches, to help you maintain control until you get the dog trained. So, with that in mind you should always start with the lowest level of device to get the desired result. Not every dog will respond to every device the same. You need to find the one that will allow you to maintain control while you train the behavior you want. The trainer should know and UNDERSTAND this concept.
I cant tell you what to do, but I personally wouldnt feel comfortable with this trainer. I would look for another one. Call your local boxer rescue and see whom they recommend, if they dont have anyone in your area, then call other working breed rescues

many working breeds have the same basic temperament issues and one of those rescue's will have a trainer they love. Or ya'll could just move to ABQ, I have a great TOP OF THE LINE, best trainer ever here in ABQ.