A process and circuit for direct lithium extraction (DLE) from natural or synthetic lithium-bearing solutions is disclosed, utilizing an alumina-based lithium selective adsorbent. The process circuit employs a monovalent salt wash solution, such as sodium chloride (NaCl) or potassium chloride (KCl), to displace impurities (e.g., boron, calcium, magnesium) from the adsorbent, followed by elution with water or a dilute salt solution to recover lithium. The process circuit improves the lithium-to-impurity ratio in the eluate, reduces operational and capital expenditures, and minimizes waste by recycling displaced impurities into the brine feed stream.