I don't really see a problem with using the autopliot for the reasons already given (reduction in workload), provided you keep the scan going to monitor any deviations.
Most important, however, is making yourself THOROUGHLY familiar with its operation whilst still in VMC. You need to establish whether it wanders (many do in NAV mode and HDG is a better option) or whatever and what is the best way to engage it (establish attitude and set or set to establish attitude etc).
In addition, you need to explore all the possible failures and how to cope with them. For example, is it linked to an electric trim? If the trim runs away can you overpower it manually or pull a CB to regain control? Practice recovery from unusual attitudes under the hood so that if it does all go awry you stand a good chance of surviving the episode.
Autopilots help a lot, even if it is just the wing leveller that you describe, but you need to be aware of their limitations. There can be a tendency for you to get out of the loop if you don't pay attention, which leads to the 'What's it doing now?' type of scenario.
Don't neglect your hand-flying in IMC, however. The more you do of it, the easier it becomes, and you might find you don't even feel yourself needing the assistance of an autopilot.