I would suggest a groomer then. Vets will do it too, but only in extreme cases.
But cats can 100% be trained to be ok with having their nails clipped! I used to foster before my husband lost his job, and even the older foster cats could be taught to allow some handling of their paws.
Both of my cats now are very good about it, are super well behaved when we trim their nails or handle them in any way.
You just gotta be patient and calm.