How can I use this to UN-screw a recessed flood bulb from a high ceiling when the pole unscrews and collapses on itself when turned counter-clockwise?

If the bulb is a recessed bulb in the ceiling, you will need to used the suction cup, not the flood light bulb changer because it could get caught in the can light. This is why we recommend the recessed bulb changer for this application. Screw the suction cup to the pole, tighten the thumb screw to the pole by turning the thumb screw in a clockwise motion. Then make sure the pole is locked in the position you need to reach the bulb. The pole does have three locking positions to extend and collapse the pole properly. The next step is to make sure you have the string attached to the suction cup as in the instructions. The you can go reach towards the bulb and make sure that the suction cup is secured to the bulb before trying to remove the bulb in counter clockwise movement. Sometime I like to add a drop of water for the section cup but you can judge this for yourself. You do the reverse to replace the bulb and when the bulb is replaced and tight into the ceiling can light socket, simply pull down on the string to open the seal of the suction cup. I hope these are found helpful and useful.