Mikayla Matthews: Navigating Separation and Healing
What does the recent separation of Mikayla Matthews from Jace Terry reveal about the complexities of personal trauma and relationships? The couple, who starred together in the reality show The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, have decided to separate to allow Mikayla to focus on her healing journey.
Mikayla and Jace, who were married on March 1, 2018, share four children, with their youngest daughter born on July 17, 2025. Their separation, which occurred during Season 4 of the show, was a mutual decision aimed at addressing Mikayla’s ongoing struggles with intimacy and emotional connection, largely stemming from her childhood experiences of sexual abuse.
Between the ages of six and fifteen, Mikayla experienced sexual abuse from three different individuals. This traumatic history has significantly impacted her marriage, leading to intimacy issues that she has openly discussed. Mikayla has stated that her health problems prevent her from fully engaging in the marriage, describing her nervous system as being in a constant state of fight or flight, which affects her emotional intimacy.
In Season 3 of the show, Mikayla and Jace sought couples therapy in hopes of resolving their intimacy challenges. However, they did not make significant progress. Mikayla has emphasized that her health issues are a barrier to their relationship, stating, “I kind of set that expectation for him of, like, I’m not able to work through this and give it 100% until I can work through my health stuff.” This acknowledgment highlights the deep-rooted challenges they face.
The decision to separate was made to prioritize Mikayla’s healing process. She has been through years of counseling but continues to grapple with the effects of her past trauma. Mikayla noted, “It’s a work in progress,” indicating that while she is committed to her healing, it is an ongoing journey. The couple maintains daily contact for the sake of their children, which suggests a commitment to co-parenting despite their separation.
Mikayla has also made it clear that this separation is not permanent, and there is no set timeline for reconciliation. She stated, “I think it’s just something that’s going to take a lot more time,” reflecting her understanding that healing is a gradual process. As they navigate this challenging chapter, the focus remains on Mikayla’s well-being and the well-being of their children.
As of now, details remain unconfirmed regarding the future of Mikayla and Jace’s relationship. However, their story serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of love, trauma, and the importance of prioritizing mental health in relationships.
