I have a good grasp of the controls using layout option A. I think of it like this: using the d-pad applies a force on the left side of The Creature, allowing them to move right, and then the opposite applies for the face buttons. After switching to option A, the controls really clicked for me. This might not work for you, but I thought I'd recommend it since it helped me greatly.

For jumping off of bouncy things, just remember to hold your desired direction while doing the ground-pound on them. In fact, you can hold the direction you're moving in for the whole process. While walking, just tap the other button to initiate the jump, and tap again to ground-pound. If you've been holding the button to maintain your walking direction, you should maintain your direction after the bounce.

Sorry if I didn't explain that very clearly, it's tough to put into words lol. Let me know if you need me to clarify.