ARA ABRAHAMIAN, CRPC®

Senior Partner / Lead Advisor

One of the most gratifying experiences in Ara Abrahamian’s career came when he and colleague Matt Brock left the national firm they worked for to start Divergent Planning. Not only did the move provide him the opportunity to offer independent, comprehensive financial planning, but many of their clients made the transition with them. The loyalty showed Ara that he was on the right path, and today he is intent on building a firm whose services continue to meet clients’ needs.

Ara started his financial services career as an intern at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, then served as an Advanced Financial Advisor at Ameriprise, where he and Matt initially ran their practice under a company umbrella. At Ameriprise, Ara focused on researching, creating, and managing client portfolios, a responsibility he handles today as Chief Investment Officer. He also advises on federal government benefits and helps clients plan for their retirement income needs. Ara started Divergent Planning in part to enjoy long-term relationships with clients, and he finds deep satisfaction in the fact that most of the firm’s clients have been with them for a decade or more.

Outside of the office, the Rockville resident is busy satisfying his traveling bug, especially abroad. Of Armenian heritage, he understandably counts Armenia as one of his favorite destinations, as well as Barcelona and Rome. Closer to home, you’re likely to find him at a movie theater, as the cinema gives him great joy. He watches anywhere from five to 10 movies a month, tracking the films on an app. He also likes opera and classical music, and time with his niece and nephew.

Education and Designations

• Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor℠, College for Financial Planning

• Bachelor of Science, Marketing and International Business, University of Maryland, College Park

Memberships and Community Involvement

• Volunteer, Soorp Khatch Armenian Apostolic Church

• Volunteer, Armenian National Committee of America