Michael A. Ferrara

Financial Planner | CFP®, LUTCF®

Helping clients make sound financial decisions through experience, discipline, and a long-term, values-driven relationship.
Email:mike@horizonwealthstrategies.com
Expertise

Mike has been helping people make sound financial decisions for over 30 years and brings a depth of both personal and professional experience to his clients.

He takes a holistic approach to financial planning, helping clients look beyond individual decisions and understand how everything fits together. Mike specializes in working with retirees, business owners, and military veterans. His work focuses on investment advice, retirement planning, tax-efficient financial strategies, estate planning, and business succession.

Mike is passionate about helping clients build and protect a legacy for their families and their businesses. He takes pride in building long-term relationships and earning the trust of every client he works with.

Mike has earned the following professional designations:

  • CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®)
  • Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow (LUTCF®)
  • Financial Planning Association (FPA®)
  • A Member of the Million Dollar Round Table’s prestigious Top of the Table
  • National Association of Insurance & Financial Advisors (NAIFA®), where he serves as a member at large in the Texas chapter

Mike's Thoughts on the Benefits of Financial Planning

Mike’s approach is grounded in experience, discipline, and a strong sense of responsibility.

He believes financial planning should reflect the full picture of a client’s life, not just a single area. His work is focused on helping clients make decisions that are thoughtful, practical, and aligned with their long-term goals.

Whether planning for retirement, transitioning a business, or protecting family wealth, Mike helps clients move forward with clarity and confidence.

Mike specializes in comprehensive financial planning for:

  • Retirees and individuals preparing for retirement
  • Business owners planning for succession and long-term financial independence
  • Military veterans seeking structure, discipline, and long-term clarity
  • Business professionals with complex planning needs

His work centers on helping clients bring structure to complex decisions and create a plan that supports both their lifestyle and their legacy.

Service and Military Background

Mike’s background includes over 12 years of service as a United States Naval Officer and participation during Operation Desert Storm.

He also volunteered for more than 12 years with the United States Air Force Auxiliary (Civil Air Patrol), where he served as a Navigator on his flight crew. During this time, he participated in both real-world and training missions involving search and rescue, drug interdiction, presidential security, and post-hurricane reconnaissance.

The missions he flew after Superstorm Sandy in 2012 helped to determine the federal aid for the communities impacted in New Jersey.

This background has shaped Mike’s approach to his work, emphasizing discipline, accountability, and a strong commitment to serving others with integrity.

Outside the Office

Mike was raised in New Jersey and attended the University of Missouri, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Marketing.

He now lives in New Braunfels, Texas with his wife Maria, who is also a Veteran of the United States Air Force, and served for 13 years along with their dogs Nikki & Koda.

Outside of work, Mike spends his time with Maria & friends enjoying live music, wineries, a good cigar & a great bourbon while taking in all the beauty the Texas Hill Country has to offer.

Together, Mike and Maria have three children: Maria’s daughters Lauren and Gina, and Mike’s son Tony, who is also a veteran and the fourth generation in his family to serve in the United States Navy.

Tony served as a Fleet Marine Force Corpsman and combat medic with the United States Marine Corps.

Start a Conversation

Mike works closely with clients who value experience, discipline, and a structured approach to financial planning, particularly those preparing for retirement, transitioning a business, or planning for long-term financial security.

If you are looking for guidance grounded in real-world experience and a commitment to doing what is right for clients, let’s start with a conversation.

Let's Talk Retirement

WIth an Experienced Financial Planner