isn't it amazing what a little common sense and using your class abilities does?
if you are leveling deception Khem and Ashara seem like the only questable companions you can roll with and Ashara only if you aren't fighting a gold mob. make use of your def. cooldowns(they have a very short timer) and your cc abilities(mind trap, shock, low blow). And you should be fine. If you have biochem it's very beneficial to get a reusable force adrenal as that gives you 2 50% reduction cooldowns which reduces down time and makes things easier. Will you die? yes but you shouldn't feel underpowered, only challenged.