Pennsylvania Certified Financial Planner Kelly Reddy-Heffner
Divorce can be one of the most financially and emotionally stressful periods in a person’s life. The stress of untangling assets, making informed financial decisions, and planning for the future can feel impossible, especially amid the heightened emotions of a divorce. Kelly Reddy-Heffner of Steel City Wealth Collaborative helps individuals approach divorce with clarity and confidence by blending her technical financial knowledge with an empathetic approach. Since 2016, Kelly has practiced in the finances services industry, specializing in guiding individuals through significant life transitions to make a plan for their future. With a background in education, her path has been shaped by a deep commitment to learning and teaching. She continuously expands her expertise through certifications, including Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA), and Certified Financial Therapist (CFT), and holds a certificate in Negotiation Mastery, in addition to being a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) ensuring she can provide the most effective guidance for her clients.
In this interview, Kelly shares her insights on the importance of financial education, strategic decision-making, and emotional awareness when navigating significant life transitions. Whether it’s analyzing financial options during divorce, refining long-term goals, or addressing student loan debt, Kelly creates realistic and actionable plans tailored to her client’s unique personalities and needs. Helping clients recognize how past financial experiences and emotional triggers may influence their decisions, she guides them to build confidence through small, actionable steps that align their mindset and goals. Her belief in the power of peaceful change reflects the values of the Amicable Divorce Network, making her an invaluable resource for individuals seeking a compassionate and informed approach to navigating divorce and major life changes.
Full Name: Kelly Reddy-Heffner
Title: Certified Financial Planner
What is the name of your business or firm? Steel City Wealth Collaborative
Which state(s)/county(ies) do you service? Based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, working with clients around the country.
Which professional field do you work in? Financial Industry
How many years of experience do you have within your field? I have been a financial planner for the past 8 years, working with divorce clients for the last 2-3 years.
What certifications do you hold? Certified Financial Planner (CFP), Certified Student Loan Professional (CSLP), Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA), Certified Financial Therapist (CFT), and a certificate in Negotiation Mastery.
What related services (if applicable) do you offer?
In addition to financial planning and coaching for individual clients, I also work closely with legal professionals as a financial neutral when appropriate to help answer financial questions and decrease conflict during the divorce process. The added anxiety, stress, and grief that often accompany these situations can make it difficult for individuals to stay focused and make good financial decisions.
What drew you to join the Amicable Divorce Network?
I first heard about ADN through a colleague and, after doing my own research, I knew it was the right fit. I was drawn to its strong community, valuable resources, and commitment to guiding clients through divorce in a thoughtful, solution-focused way. Having access to a trusted, vetted network of professionals who prioritize resolution over litigation is invaluable. Tracy’s definition of “amicable” especially resonated with me — working together to find a solution in a reasonable way. I remind clients to focus on their “why” and envision the life they want after divorce. Understanding their “why” empowers them to make informed choices, pivot when needed, and build a future that aligns with their goals.
What makes you stand out as a professional, or what do you do that sets you apart? (Experiences, community partnerships, awards, etc.)
What sets me apart is the ability to truly listen, not just to hear words but to understand the deeper needs and concerns behind them. Obtaining the Certified Financial Therapist credential was important to me because I believe that magic happens when empathy and insight come together. By taking time to explore each client’s situation, I can offer strategic options and walk them through possible solutions, providing financial education and ensuring they feel supported and empowered along the way. Raised by a single mother and familiar with the financial struggles of a one-parent family, I also pursued my CFDA to be better educated to specifically help people through the divorce process.
What has been the biggest benefit of your membership with ADN?
The biggest benefit of my membership has been the ability to connect with a collaborative community of like-minded professionals. As a solopreneur, I value the network of experienced colleagues to turn to for discussions, insights, and support. Being part of a group that prioritizes amicable divorce allows for meaningful conversations and continuous learning, further supporting my belief in the power of peaceful change and holistic resolution. I have already taken the required ADN training and look forward to connecting with my fellow Pennsylvania chapter members.
Do you have a favorite/saying/words to live by?
One of my favorite sayings is to “Expect the unexpected.” Life rarely unfolds exactly as planned, so I’ve learned the importance of rolling with it while being as prepared as possible. When challenges arise, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but I believe in focusing on one step at a time. You don’t have to do everything at once when things are stressful. Just identifying one good thing to do in the present moment can create momentum. Small, intentional actions lead to meaningful progress and you don’t have to change everything all at once.
Kelly’s dedication to her clients is enhanced by her desire to continuously grow, learn, and improve her skills through her lifelong dedication to education. She continuously maintains her credentials and participates in continuing education programs, bringing a unique perspective to how she handles financial matters with empathy and compassion for her clients.
“Clients’ financial situations often become more complex than they initially seem. Every decision about housing, budget, assets, tax, a business ownership (if applicable) can have a ripple effect, which is why education and access to the right resources are essential. My role is to help clients navigate these complexities with clarity, ensuring they make informed, strategic financial decisions.“
-Kelly Reddy-Heffner, Certified Financial Planner
On her podcast “Fresh Squeezed Finance”, Kelly shares how to get into the right mindset to achieve your financial goals, along with tips and tricks on how to live your best life. She offers quick takeaways on money, mindset, and motivation that are easy to implement into your daily life. You can also listen to Kelly’s guest appearance on the Amicable Divorce Network Podcast in an episode titled “Navigating Divorce, Money and Menopause” with host Tracy Ann Moore-Grant.
Learn more about Kelly and Steel City Wealth Collaborative at www.steelcitywealthcollaborative.com.
Be sure to visit Kelly’s About Page and meet her Director of High-Five’s and workday companion, Mr. Fred Rogers. A tribute to Kelly’s Pittsburgh roots, Fred shares his name with the beloved television icon who launched the children’s program Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood at WQED. Kelly’s dog Fred is either very relaxed or very stubborn and often decides to rest over assisting with the daily operations of Steel City Wealth Collaborative. However, Kelly assures us that a well-earned promotion to Chief Barketing Officer is on the horizon, complete with a signature red cardigan, just like Mister Rogers.
Kelly, it has been a delight learning about you and your thoughtful approach to financial planning and support. Thank you so much for taking the time to share more about yourself and your work!