Scrambler,
I know where you're coming from. You are referring to departures and that is in CAR 178. Climbing through it in IFR is fine because it is part of departures but the PIC still has the sole responsibility of terrain clearance until reaching LSA.
As you said, if you are sure that you know the area very well, and can clear the terrain then it's fine for you to climb in IMC.
But what I gather in Healys' question is if you are in an unfamiliar area not knowing if there is high terrain in the next 2 miles because clouds are blocking your vision, would you climb below LSA in IMC and risk it ?
I say no, climb to LSALT in VMC and then change category to IFR.
The other option is ( IF YOU MUST ) is do a 180 on the same track, ask Radar or Centre for traffic in your area, if clear, climb through IMC to get to LSA since your previous track is clear of obstruction at your level. Once LSA is reached, change back to original heading and change to IFR.
A bit unorthodox I know.
Deltasix