first off, the button to attack is different from the button to counter after dodging.
secondly, enemies can be fed.
thirdly, the extractor upgrades from the shamans are not the only ones in the game.

first off, unblock the umbilical cord asap, it unlocks the ability to warp.
For the umbilical cord you will need to progress until you end up in the spa/pool/immortality treatment facility, you have to go all the way to the right, but the full process is complicated(thanks to Foxtopus for the advice on adding clarity)
secondly, movement based cortex upgrades are helpful.
thirdly, after unblocking the umbilical cord, bring a connection to a shaman.
edit: kill the shaman while unconnected or you may end up stuck.

This was my first guide so it may not be good, and i did leave some things out, but i think it is better for you to find them out yourself, if you find a mechanic you think should be added, comment my guide, or make your own, thanks for reading, goodbye!