**Reality TV Star Mikayla Matthews Opens Up About Separation from Husband Jace Terry**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/mikayla-matthews-jace-terry-051625-314c2b8aefc840feb014a0d786d19c68.jpg)
Mikayla Matthews, a prominent figure from reality television, has candidly discussed her current marital status following a surprising revelation during the latest season of *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives*. The fourth season unveiled that Matthews and her husband, Jace Terry, have decided to separate while she continues to address her struggles with intimacy stemming from childhood trauma.
In an exclusive interview with *PEOPLE*, Matthews elaborated on the couple’s decision to take a step back. “It’s still new to me, and it’s new to him, and we’re just navigating it the best way that we can,” she shared, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by her past experiences of sexual abuse. The couple, who have four children together—most notably welcoming a baby girl just this past July—are currently figuring out the dynamics of their relationship amid these difficulties.
Reflecting on their situation, Matthews remarked on the emotional processes involved. “Last season, we dove into the beginning stages of it, and that was me revisiting all this trauma for the first time as well,” she said, indicating that the journey has been particularly difficult and requires more time for healing.
During the latest season of the show, Matthews revealed that they have sought help through therapy; however, she acknowledged the struggle to focus on intimacy issues, especially given her experiences with chronic skin flare-ups. Terry has also voiced his concerns during discussions with friends, expressing his frustration with the lack of progress they have made. “I’m definitely not okay with it,” he stated. “So I just feel like the only thing I can do is be patient and be there for her.”
As they navigate their separation, both Matthews and Terry have articulated their hopes for this time apart. Matthews expressed her desire to focus on herself, while Terry has shared his disappointment regarding her hesitance to fully engage in trauma therapy. “I think it’s hard anytime you bring up the stuff with the sex and the intimacy,” Matthews explained.
In response, Terry has suggested that committing to therapy could help alleviate some of the stress affecting their relationship. “I feel like I’ve done a lot of therapy work already, and my stuff is still bad,” Matthews was quick to clarify. She highlighted that the separation is not intended to be permanent, emphasizing their commitment as parents: “I’m not trying to go even a day away from the kids anyway.”
Despite their separation, Matthews and Terry have been spotted together in public and have maintained a presence on social media, attending events such as a recent Broadway opening night in Chicago for fellow cast member Whitney Leavitt. The couple brought their children along to the afterparty, demonstrating a united front in a family setting, even amid personal struggles.
With their journey shared publicly through the reality show, Matthews’ experiences resonate with many viewers, particularly regarding themes of trauma and resilience. The current season of *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives* can now be streamed on Hulu and Disney+, offering fans insight into their ongoing story.
For those affected by similar issues, resources are available. Anyone in need of support can reach out for help by texting “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741, connecting with certified crisis counsellors ready to assist.
As Matthews and Terry work through this pivotal moment in their relationship, their honesty could offer guidance to others facing similar challenges in intimacy and healing from past traumas.