Facing the pain one bit at a time is the right attitude to have. I always say if I had to face everything that I have done all together I could never have coped with it.
For me two things have been really helpful.
1. Writing a daily diary about how I feel. That way the feelings get expressed and don't get chance to build up. I've writen an article about using journalling to express your feelings. You might want to read it
How to express your Feelings
2. Counselling to work through issues I'm stuck on. I've done both f2f and online counselling. Depending upon the issues you may only need a couple of sessions.
Alison