What led to Mikayla Matthews and Jace Terry’s separation?
Mikayla Matthews and Jace Terry’s recent separation raises the question: how do past traumas affect present relationships? The couple, who married on March 1, 2018, decided to separate during Season 4 of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives to allow Mikayla to focus on her healing journey.
Concrete facts reveal that Mikayla experienced sexual abuse from three different individuals between the ages of six and fifteen. This traumatic history has significantly impacted her emotional intimacy and overall well-being. Mikayla has openly discussed how her childhood trauma, coupled with chronic health issues, has made it difficult for her to fully engage in her marriage.
Challenges in their relationship
Throughout their marriage, Mikayla and Jace faced numerous challenges, particularly regarding intimacy. They attended couples therapy in Season 3, but unfortunately, they did not make significant progress in addressing these issues. Mikayla has expressed that her health problems prevent her from giving 100% to the 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.”
As of October 2025, the couple has four children, with their youngest daughter born on July 17, 2025. Despite their separation, Mikayla and Jace continue to maintain daily contact for the sake of their children. Mikayla emphasized that the separation is not permanent and there is no specific timeline for reconciliation, indicating that they are both committed to navigating this difficult period.
The impact of trauma on intimacy
Mikayla has been candid about the effects of her past trauma on her marriage. She described her nervous system as being in a constant state of fight or flight, which complicates her ability to form emotional connections. “It’s a work in progress,” she remarked, acknowledging the ongoing nature of her healing journey.
Furthermore, Mikayla’s experience of abuse lasted for ten years, and she has been through years of counseling. Yet, she still struggles with her nervous system’s response to stress and intimacy. “I think it’s just something that’s going to take a lot more time,” she noted, highlighting the complexities involved in healing from such deep-seated trauma.
What comes next for Mikayla and Jace?
As they navigate their separation, Mikayla and Jace are focused on their individual healing processes while ensuring their children remain a priority. Mikayla’s commitment to her mental health and well-being is evident, and she continues to seek support through counseling. Details remain unconfirmed about their future together, but both have expressed a desire to maintain a healthy co-parenting relationship.
The journey of healing is often non-linear, and for Mikayla Matthews, it is a path filled with challenges and hope. As she continues to work through her past traumas, the impact on her marriage with Jace Terry remains a poignant reminder of the complexities of love, intimacy, and personal growth.
