tools not reverting and brush tool showing as eraser

Hi,

I am tearing my hair out here due to Photoshop not performing basic functions reliably. I have been experiencing an issue on the Mac version (Windows version runs fine) where it will either;

a - not show me the tool I am using - instead a generic circle (yes,  I have checked cursor options multiple times and this makes no difference)

b - Showing brush as an eraser icon, doesnt respond to request to change it

c - insists on implementing a hard line rather than feathered, irrespective of what I have asked (and what is shown in the tool contextual menu)

d - doesnt switch tools - maing it literally impossible to use the program.

I have tested doing exactly the same options in a document on both Windows and Mac, and Windows doesnt seem to suffer the same issues.

Not sure what is going on at Adobe lately, but its QC seems to be heading in the wrong direction. I am in desperate need of a program that works, so if I cant find a solution I am going to have to seriously consider jumping the Adobe ship and seeking alternative solutions, of which there seem to be many, who are increasingly getting positive reactions.

Any ideas on the above welcomed, I have 10 images I need to edit heavily before a deadline tomorrow