ICAN is a fantastic resource on the subject of VBAC. Plus, there are a lot of ladies around here who've tried and made it...and some who didn't...that might be able to offer you some advice. I'm blessed with not having to face that challenge, but I do have a few ideas for you:
1) A doctor that "offers" a VBAC is not the same as one who "supports" it. Meaning, doctors that "offer" the service will often place impossible restrictions on you. For example, "You must go into spontaneous labor by your due date." Or "Your baby must be less than 8 lbs." They really make you jump through hoops in order to protect themselves from lawsuits. I'd recommend consulting with several physicians in your area (and maybe a few certified nurse midwives, if you can find a hospital that allows privilege) about your chances.
2) It also takes more than "active labor" to deliver a baby. Most physicians and L&D nurses don't support the labor itself. You can't be in bed, strapped to monitors constantly, and expect a labor to just magically progress (in case of slow dilation or failure to progress). Get a doula to help you move around and change positions constantly.
3) You're best shot will be without an epidural and without pitocin induction. Epidurals limit your ability to change position and move.
4) Your "candidacy" for VBAC also depends on the locale of your scar, which your practitioner can discuss with you.
5) As for alternative pain relief, you might look at hypnobirthing or the Bradley method. I think your best resource is a birth doula, though.